Chester’s most iconic address has entered a new chapter with the first phase of a major refurbishment at The Queen at Chester. This landmark Italianate hotel, dating back to 1860, has welcomed illustrious guests from Charles Dickens to Lillie Langtry, and now combines its rich heritage with a contemporary new look.
The transformation includes 104 refurbished bedrooms and elegant public spaces, from refreshed meeting rooms to a glittering central bar. The design honours the grandeur of the past with panelled walls, patterned wooden floors and plush fabrics, while introducing modern comforts such as air conditioning and sleek finishes. The result is a hotel that feels both stately and stylish.
For business or special occasions, the Colonnades and Palazzo suites provide an impressive backdrop for events and conferences. Guests staying overnight will discover bedrooms that nod to the building’s regency heritage while offering the comfort and luxury expected of a modern city hotel.
At the heart of the social scene is the stunning new Albert Room bar, where jewel-coloured furnishings, rich gold accents and marble tops create a glamorous yet relaxed setting for cocktails or evening drinks.
Dining is equally refined at the V&A Restaurant, now open for indulgent afternoon teas and dinner. The menu blends classics and modern favourites—think pan-seared lamb rump, grilled seabass, vibrant salads and the hotel’s much-lauded burgers – alongside a dessert menu too tempting to resist.
A new sunlit terrace extends the experience outdoors, offering seasonal small plates and handcrafted cocktails in an elegant al fresco setting. Whether for a long lunch, sunset aperitif or evening under the stars, the terrace is designed for indulgence.
Location is another of The Queen’s strengths. Set on City Road, the hotel is moments from Chester’s Roman walls and cathedral, with the racecourse just a short stroll away.
Blending history, heritage and contemporary luxury, The Queen at Chester has been reimagined for today while staying true to its illustrious past – making it the perfect place to stay, dine and celebrate in the heart of this historic city.
